April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Here at West Bloomington’s Krengel Dental, we want to inform you about a growing concern: Oral Cancer.

According to National Cancer Institute estimates, in 2013:

-There will be 41,380 new cases of oral cancer in the US

-Of those cases, 7,890 will result in deaths

-On average, a person dies from oral cancer every hour of every day

When it comes to oral cancer, early detection is the key to survival. This serious dental disease, which pertains to the mouth, lips or throat, is often highly curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages. Visiting your dentist for regular check ups and avoiding tobacco are the key factors in preventing oral cancer.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is any cancerous tissue growth located in the oral cavity (mouth), on the lip, and the oropharynx (the part of the throat at the back of the mouth). 

Oral cancer most commonly involves: 

• the tongue, which accounts for 20% to 25% of cases
• floor of the mouth, 15%
•  the lip, 10% to 15%
• minor salivary glands, 10% to 15%.

Oral Cancer frequently has no symptoms; however, when symptoms do occur, the most common include: 

• A sore or ulcer on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal
• A lump on the lip, or in the mouth, or in the neck
• A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
• Unusual bleeding, pain, or numbness in the mouth
• Oral pain that does not go away
• Difficulty or pain with chewing, swallowing, or jaw opening
• Swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
• Tooth loosening
• Bad breath
• Sensory loss in the face
• Abnormal taste in the mouth
• Tongue problems

Come in to Krengel Dental for your regular dental checkup and get screened for Oral Cancer.